U.S. Army SSG (E-6) Renard Kenneth "Renny" Harrison,63, of St. Augustine, (native of Palatka) entered the sunset of lifeon Saturday, January 16, 2016 atthe Malcom Randall VA Medical Center,Gainesville.The son of James "Daddy James" Harrison, Sr. and Emma Mae Lewis Williams, Renardwas born on Thursday, February 28, 1952 in Palatka, Florida . "Renny" was "raised as a son" by devoted uncle and aunt, Amos and Bessie Sermons. In his early years, he was a member of Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church under the pastoral guidance of Rev. James A. Wright. He was a 1969 graduate of Central Academy High School, Palatka. In 1970, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and attained a distinguished career as a Telecommunication Specialist and Electrical Engineer. Over several tours of military duty, Renny was stationed both in the states as well as overseas (Germany; Korea; Fort Knox, Kentucky; Fort Lewis, Washington; and Fort Ord, California. On Friday, July 27, 1973, Renard was united in Holy Matrimony to Gayle Marie Halyard.

On June 28, 2012, Renard retired from the United States Army Reserve with many earned, commendations and decorations, especially receiving the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Ribbon and National Guard Recruiting Ribbon. His civilian employment following his military retirement included the former Yarborough (Parker) Cadillac and Toyota of St. Augustine dealerships, respectively. Over the years, Renny and Gayle welcomed seven wonderful children into their home. Renny instilled values in his children and other by reminding them "nothing just comes to you, you have to go get it." His children will remember him as a kindhearted, but stern, family oriented father, who encouraged them to pursue their goals. He was a generous individual who loved sports, family and food and very passionate about his dogs. He often coached basketball and football.

In addition to his parents, Renard was preceded in eternal rest by three brothers, Bobby James Lewis, Allie Lewis, Jr., James Harrison, Jr., sister, Helen Hart Johnson; granddaughter, Leajanaye Rollins; and niece, Wanda Yvette Lewis.

He leaves to cherish his memories: devoted wife of 43 years, Gayle Halyard Harrison, St. Augustine; sons & daughters , York (Phyllis) Halyard, Ronald (Kenwanee) Sapp, Gayle (Terrence) Bandy, India Sapp, Brazil (Darrin) James, Renard (Erika) Harrison Jr., Shamika (Darnell) Gatling; "like sons and daughters", Sean and Shawntavia Harrison, Reginald Brady, Kenneth and Derrick Williams; brothers, Jackie E. Lewis, Toledo, OH; Wilbert (Gail) Williams, Fayetteville, NC; sister , Mae Thelma Lewis Frazier, Palatka; 39 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, especially devoted nieces, Karen, Joyce and Alesia ; nephews, other relatives and beloved friends, especially best friend and classmate, Joseph Butts, Palm Desert, CA.

Visitation: 4-8 p.m., Friday, January 22 and Celebration of Life will be 3 p.m., Saturday, January 23, at "Flagg's Chapel of Serenity," Reverend Karl N. Flagg, Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, is the eulogist.